Special Education, MSEd

Program Requirements

Accelerated Master’s Degree Option (MSEd) - Comprehensive Intervention Specialist (CIS)

Students must be accepted into the accelerated program and receive approval from the Graduate Program Advisor, the Department Head of the Undergraduate program, and the Graduate College prior to enrolling in mixed credit courses. This is done by using a mixed credit form. Acceptance into the program and all approvals must be completed prior to the end of the Change of Schedule Period. See the Graduate College for further information.

Accelerated Option Admission Requirements

1. Junior standing, with an overall GPA of 3.00 or better
2. Admission to teacher education program
3. Completion of SPE 345 with a B or higher
4. Acceptance of the applicant by the CIS graduate faculty in special education under the accelerated masters option

Accelerated Option Mixed Credit Course Options

If accepted into the accelerated program, up to 12 hours of coursework may apply to both the undergraduateand graduate degrees, including, but not limited to:

• SPE 619 - Methods I: Cognitive and Behavioral Teaching Approaches for Exceptional Learners
• SPE 617 - Direct Instruction in Reading and Language Arts
• SPE 660 - Working with Families of Exceptional Individuals
• SPE 779 - Application of Technology in Special Education

Comprehensive Intervention Specialist (CIS) Option

The Comprehensive Intervention Specialist (CIS) Graduate option is designed to provide candidates with in-depth knowledge and skills to effectively assess and implement research based programs for individuals requiring specialized supports and differentiatied instruction within multi-tiered systems of support. The CIS option will provide educators with expertise in conducting on-going progress-monitoring of the academic and behavioral skill performance of PreK-12 students, development and planning of individualized multi-tiered systems of support using research-based practices appropriate for individual student needs, and implementation of multi-tiered systems of support on a school wide basis. The CIS option will also support professionals working in agency and clinical settings. Required courses in addition to the core as follows.

• SPE 617 - Direct Instruction in Reading and Language Arts
• SPE 619 - Methods I: Cognitive and Behavioral Teaching Approaches for Exceptional Learners
• SPE 660 - Working with Families of Exceptional Individuals
• 3 credits of  SPE 710 - Problems in Special Education
• SPE 779 - Application of Technology in Special Education
• SPE 784 - Advanced Procedures in Teaching Students with Mild to Moderate Disabilities
• SPE 787 - Advanced Behavioral Analysis and Intervention
• Electives Credit Hours: 9

Blindness and Low Vision (B&LV) Option

The Blindness and Low Vision (B&LV) option is designed to provide intensive research based instruction in regard to assessment and programming for individuals identified with low vision or who are blind. Course work will emphasize Braille instruction as well as the use of varied technology options to support individuals with VI across multiple environments. Course work will be offered online to support broad delivery and is accredited by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Teacher Certification in Blind and Partially sighted may be obtained upon completion of the VI emphasis. Successful completion of the course work in the area of VI, along with additional course work as outlined, will in part address requirements for National certification and a Missouri State Graduate Certificate in Orientation and Mobility.

Required coursework in addition to the core follows.

• SPE 605 - Braille Reading and Writing I *
• SPE 606 - Principles of Orientation and Mobility *
• SPE 607 - Services and Diversity in Blindness and Low Vision and Additional Disabilities *
• SPE 608 - Low Vision, Anatomy and Physiology of the Eye *
• SPE 709 - Methods of Teaching Students with Visual Impairments and Multiple Disabilities *
• SPE 711 - Braille Reading and Writing II *
• SPE 730 - Health, Functional, and Psychosocial Aspects of Disability *
• SPE 733 - Methods of Teaching Independent Living Skills to Persons with Blindness or Low Vision *
• SPE 750 - Practicum in Blindness and Low Vision *
• SPE 779 - Application of Technology in Special Education *
• SPE 783 - Advanced Assessment to Support Individuals with Developmental and Sensory Disabilities *

Special Education Alternative Certification Track Option

The Special Education Alternative Certification Track (SEACT) option is designed to facilitate Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Teacher Certification in K-12 Cross-Categorical Special Education (Mild to Moderate Disabilities) while acquiring advanced knowledge and skills in the area. Course work is designed to reflect State and National standards with demonstrated mastery of specific course competencies required through research-based projects. In addition to the Master of Science in Education, successful completion of this option will result in teacher certification in the area of K-12 Mild/Moderate Cross-Categorical Special Education (given that all required DESE content assessments are also passed). Required course work in addition to the core follows.

• SPE 715 - Foundations in Special Education
• SPE 782 - Advanced Diagnosis and Remediation of Students with Mild to Moderate Disabilities
• SPE 792 - Advanced Diagnosis and Remediation of Students with Disabilities Lab
• SPE 619 - Methods I: Cognitive and Behavioral Teaching Approaches for Exceptional Learners
• SPE 621 - Methods II: Functional Living Skills and Health Issues
• SPE 789 - Supervised Teaching-The Exceptional Child
• PSY 703 - Human Growth and Development
• SPE 617 - Direct Instruction in Reading and Language Arts
• SPE 787 - Advanced Behavioral Analysis and Intervention
• SPE 664 - Language Development of Exceptional Students
• SPE 616 - Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis and Interventions for Teachers in Applied Settings
• SPE 717 - Methods of Teaching Mathematics to Exceptional Individuals

Orientation and Mobility Option

The MSEd Option Program in Orientation and Mobility is available to individuals seeking a degree with emphasis in Orientation and Mobility. The Master’s degree option in Orientation and Mobility (O&M) is designed to meet regional and national needs and is aligned to the standards set by the Association of Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) and Academy of Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP). The program prepares specialists who teach individuals who have blindness or low vision to travel independently, safely, and efficiently in their homes and communities. Individuals who desire to pursue a degree and subsequent certification in O&M will be identified based upon geographic need and individual qualifications. Prerequisites may be required based on transcript analysis.

Required course work in addition to the core follows.

Autism Spectrum Disorders Option

The Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) option is designed for individuals who have teacher certification in an area of Mild/Moderate Disabilities who wish to enhance their skills through related and advanced course work in ASD. In-depth analysis of research-based practices specific to assessment, identification, and programming for students with ASD are stressed. Course work in addition to the core follows.

• SPE 783 - Advanced Assessment to Support Individuals with Developmental and Sensory Disabilities
• SPE 625 - Introduction to Teaching and Assessing Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
• 4 credits of  SPE 791 - Clinical Practicum for Individuals with Autism and Challenging Behavior
• SPE 627 - Research-Based Strategies for Individuals with ASD
• SPE 618 - Application of Applied Behavior Analysis and Interventions in Applied Settings
• SPE 626 - Applied Behavioral Analysis for Developmental Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders
• SPE 740 - Verbal Behavior
• Electives Credit Hours: 6

Accelerated Master’s Degree Option (MSEd) - Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders Emphasis

Students must be accepted into the accelerated program and receive approval from the Graduate Program Advisor, the Department Head of the Undergraduate program, and the Graduate College prior to enrolling in mixed credit courses. This is done by using a mixed credit form. Acceptance into the program and all approvals must be completed prior to the end of the Change of Schedule Period. See the Graduate College  for further information.

Accelerated Option Admission Requirements

1. Junior standing, with an overall GPA of 3.00 or better
2. Admission to teacher education program
3. Completion of SPE 515 with a B or higher
4. Acceptance of the applicant by the ASD graduate faculty in special education under the accelerated masters option

Accelerated Option Mixed Credit Course Options

If accepted into the accelerated program, up to 12 hours of coursework may apply to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees, including, but not limited to:

• SPE 617 - Direct Instruction in Reading and Language Arts *
• SPE 618 - Application of Applied Behavior Analysis and Interventions in Applied Settings
• SPE 619 - Methods I: Cognitive and Behavioral Teaching Approaches for Exceptional Learners *
• SPE 621 - Methods II: Functional Living Skills and Health Issues *
• SPE 625 - Introduction to Teaching and Assessing Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
• SPE 779 - Application of Technology in Special Education *

Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Option

The Master of Science in Education, Special Education, education of the deaf and hard of hearing (EDHH) is designed to prepare students to make intelligent decisions and take appropriate, thoughtful action. The program is organized to encourage students to use critical thinking and problem-solving to identify and meet the communication needs of individuals and families. The EDHH option is accredited by the Council on Education of the Deaf (CED).

The EDHH option contains three tracks. Students will work with their academic advisor to determine which track is best suited for their needs. Track one is designed to lead to teacher certification in the State of Missouri and national certification issued by the Council on Education of the Deaf. It is the track that most students will select. Within track one there is also an accelerated master’s option available which provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to begin graduate course work during the senior year, and complete the program in three graduate semesters following coursework in the junior and senior years.

Track two results in a master’s degree but does not lead to teacher certification in the State of Missouri or national certification issued by the Council on Education of the Deaf. Track three is designed for teachers who hold a bachelor’s degree in special education and teacher certification in special education. Track three leads to teacher certification in the State of Missouri but not national certification issued by the Council on Education of the Deaf.

Admission Requirements - EDHH Option

Students applying to the MSED, Special Education, EDHH apply through Grad CAS. The application deadline for first consideration is February 15 to be considered for the following fall semester. Applications will continue to be accepted and reviewed after the first date of consideration.

Full admission to the program shall be based on the following components and application requirements/deadlines:

1. A student must have an undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders, education, or related area for track one and track two. Track three requires a bachelor’s degree in special education and certification in special education.
2. The student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or better (4.00 scale).

Essential Functions

The Essential Functions of Educators of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing establish the expectations and requisite abilities considered necessary for professionals in the field of education of the deaf and hard of hearing. Students in the MSU School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies are to achieve the level of competency required for graduation and practice. It is recognized that degrees of ability vary widely among individuals. Admission candidates who feel they may not be able to acquire the essential functions set forth are encouraged to contact the School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies . Any admission candidate who may require academic accommodations to fulfill the essential functions due to a disability is encouraged to contact the Disability Resource Center at 417-836-4192 (voice) or 417-836-6792 (TTY). The School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies at MSU seeks to ensure that qualified persons with disabilities are not denied admission or subject to discrimination in admissions. The Department is committed to enabling students by any reasonable means or accommodations to complete their course of study.

The following Essential Functions are consistent with the Council on the Education of the Deaf clinical skill performance guidelines and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education guidelines expected of the first year speech-language therapists in public schools. All essential functions are introduced and coached within CLSE coursework and practicum.

Physical Abilities:

• Participate in professional responsibilities/activities for up to four-hour blocks of time with one or two breaks.
• Be self-sufficient when moving to, from and within the work setting.
• Complete diagnostic or instructional evaluation/assessment.
• Effectively implement necessary treatment plan/lesson plan. including use of materials/instrumentation and data collection.
• Provide a safe environment for others in responding quickly to emergency situations including fire, medical and environmental (e.g. weather related) emergencies and in applying universal precautions (standardized approach to infection control).
• Provide appropriate model of language and speech according to the needs of individual clients.
• Visually and auditorally monitor patient responses and materials.
• Make accurate judgments about speech and/or acoustic signals.

Behavioral and Social Attributes:

• Maintain composure and emotional objectivity in demanding situations.
• Communicate effectively and appropriately with people in person, by phone, and in written form by considering the communication needs and cultural values of the listener.
• Understand and respect supervisory authority.
• Maintain appropriate professional behavior, including punctuality, regular attendance and prompt completion of responsibilities.
• Comply with administrative, legal and regulatory policies in multiple clinical and educational settings.
• Demonstrate compassion, integrity and motivation in delivering professional services.
• Collaborate with peers and other professionals.

Intellectual Abilities:

• Solve clinical problems through critical analysis.
• Seek relevant case information, synthesize, and apply concepts and information from various sources and disciplines.
• Write discipline-specific papers and clinical reports in standard edited English at an appropriate level.
• Analyze, synthesize, interpret and retain ideas and concepts in academic and diagnostic/treatment/classroom settings.
• Maintain attention and concentration for sufficient time to complete clinical activities for up to eight hour blocks of time.

The Department is committed to enabling students by any reasonable means or accommodations to complete the course of study leading to the Master of Science in Education, Special Education, Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

Program Requirements

Non-Thesis Option: A minimum of 43 or 45 semester hours in Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing shall be completed, including the following:

1. Graduate course work to meet academic requirements for the Council on Education of the Deaf (CED).
2. Clinical practicum requirements for the Council on Education of the Deaf (CED) for track one. Clinical practicum requirements to meet Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Deaf and Hard of Hearing teacher certification requirements for tracks one and three.
3. Completion of a master’s project.
4. Comprehensive Examinations.

Thesis Option: A thesis option is not available to track three students. Requirements included in items 1 and 2 above shall pertain. Completion of the Master’s Thesis and oral defense shall replace items 3 and 4 listed above.

Additional Program Requirements

1. Students must pay for and pass both a criminal background and drug test prior to their first clinical placement. EDHH students complete the MoVECHS background check. MoVECHS results are monitored by a College of Education representative. Additional background checks may be required by offsite placements and student teaching sites. There is an additional cost for TB skin tests, liability insurance, and DESE’s Substitute Certificate.
2. EDHH students eligible for student teaching (CSD 796) will be placed in approved sites and in locations to be determined by the CLSE faculty.
3. Successfully complete the state approved exit assessments appropriate for the track.

Retention Requirements

1. To remain in the program, a student must maintain a GPA of 3.00.
2. No course with a grade below a “C” may be applied to the graduate degree.
3. The accumulation of more than 9 hours of “C” or below will result in dismissal from the program.
4. Students must progress satisfactorily through the levels of clinical practicum as defined in the Clinic Handbook.
5. Students must earn a B- or better for clinical hours in the following courses to be counted toward required clinical experiences: CSD 795  (9) and CSD 796 (8).
6. While grades are important, the student’s continuation in the CLSE Program is based on the composite picture of the ability of the student to perform satisfactorily in the clinical phase of training as well as the academic components.

The CLSE Department reserves the right to refuse enrollment or program continuation to any student. This refusal will be determined by the judgment of the School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies based upon the student’s ability to successfully complete clinical practicum assignments or to assume patient care responsibilities and/or function as a clinician/teacher. Additionally, if a student has failed to demonstrate an attitude of professionalism as judged by the SELPS Graduate Faculty and School Director , a student may be dismissed from the program.

According to the Missouri State University Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities, the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), and requirements of the SELPS, academic integrity and honesty are the foundation of the university community. Students are expected to practice academic and clinical integrity in all assigned work. Students are also expected to be honest in all interactions with other students, faculty, and staff,and be professional in attitude, actions and attire.

The university, and the School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies, has the inherent right to promulgate appropriate rules and regulations for the orderly conduct of university business and the protection of the health and safety of the university community. Students are expected to comply with all published and stated rules and regulations. If a student is accused of violating any code (theft, academic dishonestly, possession of drugs, etc.) they will be subject to warnings, loss of privileges, probation, suspension and/or dismissal.

EDHH Certification Requirements

Contact your advisor or the School Director for the requirements and coursework necessary to meet state and national certification requirements. Students pursuing certification in Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will be required to complete additional education coursework through the College of Education.

In order to be recommended for state certification, each student must:

1. Students must earn a B- or better for clinical hours in the following courses to be counted toward the required clinical experiences: CSD 795  and CSD 796.
2. Successfully complete the graduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (Education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing option).
3. Successfully complete the appropriate state approved exit assessments for track one and three.
4. Complete all state certification requirements in effect at the time a recommendation is made for tracks one and three.

EDHH MSED Curriculum - Track One (Traditional timeline)

Accelerated Master of Science in Education, Special Education, Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Additional Program Entrance Requirements

To be eligible to apply for admission to this program, the student must:

1. have junior standing and an overall GPA of 3.25 or better;
2. have completed general education requirements; and
3. have completed the following courses: SPE 310, SPE 311, CSD 312, CSD 360 and SPE 301 prior to applying to graduate school in the spring of their junior year.

After successful completion of the Bachelor of Science requirements, all students in the accelerated master’sprogram will receive the BS and will be granted full admission to the graduate college.

EDHH MSED Curriculum - Track One (Accelerated timeline)

Mixed Credit Course Options

If accepted to the accelerated program, the following 12 hours of courses may apply to both the undergraduateand graduate degrees:

• SPE 757 - Language Development: Deaf and Hard of Hearing I
• SPE 762 - Speech Development: Deaf and Hard of Hearing I
• SPE 763 - Auditory Development: Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• CSD 795 - Advanced Clinical Practice

EDHH MSED Curriculum - Track Two. EDHH MSED Degree Only Without Teaching Certification Curriculum

Track two of the EDHH option is an alternative designed for students who wish to receive a masters degree, but do NOT wish to pursue teacher certification (primarily for international students). Track two will not lead to teacher certification in Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Five of the graduate courses (14 hours) are online classes.

EDHH MSED Curriculum - Track Three

Track three of the EDHH option is for special education teachers who wish to receive a masters degree and State of Missouri teaching certification in Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Track three does not meet the practicum requirements for national certification by the Council on Education of the Deaf (CED).